December is here already, with only a few weeks to go until Christmas!
Are you an organised forward planner, with most things ticked off of your list already – or do you like to do everything in December, to get yourself fully immersed in the Christmas buzz?
What are the benefits of being a crafter at Christmas?
Whether you are someone who is prepared for Christmas in advance, always at the last-minute, or somewhere in between, the great thing about being a crafter at this time of the year, is having the ability to create gifts and decorations, while enjoying your hobby at the same time.
When it comes to organising Christmas presents, I much prefer relaxing with a cuppa, while crocheting hand-made gifts for my friends and family, to trawling the busy shopping centres for inspiration, or finding that things have sold out. When the recipient knows that something has been hand-made, especially for them, with love and care, it also makes it an extra special gift.
Taking time to switch off and be in flow with your hobby, can be beneficial for your mental health and for family harmony too, over the busy Christmas period.
‘Research has shown that crafting, regardless of the medium you use, can bolster mood, improve self-confidence, and reduce stress overall.’ (Spectrum Health and Human Services)
More about the health benefits of crafting can be found on my blog post from October ‘Crafting for mindfulness, menopause and memory’.
Pattern ideas for last minute Christmas gifts and decorations
I enjoy creating patterns for myself and others. The following patterns (which are all suitable for anyone with a basic knowledge of crochet or knitting) can be purchased from my website:
Christmas stocking – this can be used as a decoration, or to put little gifts in
Hat – perfect as a useful gift, to keep your loved ones warm in winter
Headband – create a stylish and colourful accessory, for a friend or family member
Bunting – can be used as a durable and timeless decoration
Basket – can be given as a gift on its own, or filled with other Christmas gifts
Christmas presents for crafters
I’ve always got something craft-related on my wish list. Whether it’s new yarn, patterns, tools, storage solutions or new craft kits to try out, I’m a very easy person to buy for. The drawback of being a yarn stockist, is wanting to use it all myself!
Craft-related vouchers are also a great option to put on your own wish list, to leave around as a giant hint for your partner, or to purchase as gifts for friends or family members.
Yarny Bees gift vouchers can be used on any of the items on the website. You could choose yarn made from ethically sourced, natural fibres, in a wide variety of colours or patterns to suit your own projects. You could choose to spend them on Craft Hive sessions, either online or in-person, or on ready made projects. The vouchers can be used online on my website, or physically in store at The Fabric Vault, in Lichfield.
Please get in touch if you require a voucher for an alternative amount than shown.
I hope that you have a very happy Christmas, however you are spending it and I will be back with my next blog post in the new year.
References
‘The Unexpected Benefits of Crafting’ Spectrum Health and Human Services